Children's Lighthouse

In the world of franchising, the strength of a company often lies in its leadership. At&nbsp;<a href="https://www.childrenslighthousefranchise.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, the leadership team’s vast experience and deep-rooted passion for early childhood education have been instrumental in shaping the brand into a leader in the child care industry. Here’s a closer look at the key figures who drive the success of&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> and their impressive backgrounds.<h2>Meet the Children’s Lighthouse Team</h2><h3>Michael Brown, President</h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-brown-cfe-93022515?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Michael Brown</a>, the president of Children’s Lighthouse, has been an integral part of the company since its inception. As the son of one of the founders, Brown’s involvement in the family business began early, and his passion for innovation and excellence has only grown over the years. After earning a B.S. in Finance from the University of Texas, Brown joined the company full-time in 2006. He plays a pivotal role in supporting franchisees, from obtaining lender financing to overseeing project management and financial modeling.“My dad’s goal was to build a business that could be passed down to us or one we could grow into,” said Brown. “As kids, we kept busy helping with whatever was needed at the schools — watering plants, changing air filters or handling maintenance. I started at the bottom, working in various roles within the company, and gradually moved into our franchise department. Overall, working in this family-centric environment not only helped us grow as a franchise, but also brought us closer as a family, which was an incredibly rewarding experience. We want to share that joy with other entrepreneurial families.”<h3>Stephanie Russ, Vice President &amp; General Counsel</h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-russ-1920814?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Stephanie Russ</a> brings more than 30 years of experience to her role as vice president and general counsel of Children’s Lighthouse. After serving as the company’s outside counsel for a decade, Russ officially joined the team in 2019. Her expertise extends beyond legal matters, as she also leads the development and implementation of strategic processes that strengthen the brand and improve franchisee profitability. Russ’ background includes significant roles in operations, training and human resources with large national franchisors, and she holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a law degree from Texas A&amp;M School of Law.<h3>Matt Kelton, Vice President of Franchise Development</h3>A third-generation franchise leader,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Matt Kelton</a> joined Children’s Lighthouse in 2024 with 25 years of industry experience. His career began as a successful multi-unit franchisee, and he has since held significant roles, including brand president/chief operating officer for franchises like Computer Renaissance and Showhomes Home Services. Kelton’s expertise in driving multimillion-dollar revenue growth and revitalizing struggling enterprises has made him a key asset to Children’s Lighthouse. “The culture and foundation that Michael’s dad and uncle established is what really drew me to this company,” said Kelton. “They have a solid model and the demand is bigger than ever. They’re well capitalized, they have a great team in place and the potential for growth is incredible.” &nbsp;He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from TCU.<h3>Colin Berry, Vice President of Brand Development</h3>Since joining Children’s Lighthouse in 2019,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/berrycolin?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Colin Berry</a> has been instrumental in developing and managing marketing strategies for both individual schools and the brand at a national level. With over a decade of experience in franchise marketing, Berry has held roles at other well-known brands such as T.G.I. Fridays, MOOYAH Burgers and Mr. Gatti’s Pizza. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Union College and has received marketing accreditation from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University.<h3>Shelly Pair, Vice President of Operations</h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellypair?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Shelly Pair</a> leads the Operations team at Children’s Lighthouse, bringing 26 years of experience in educational childcare leadership. Her extensive knowledge of the industry, coupled with her customer-service focus, has been a key factor in the success of franchisees across the country. Pair holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Science from the University of Nebraska and has demonstrated her ability to drive significant revenue growth in previous roles.<h3>Dr. Kristi Smith, Director of Education &amp; Training</h3><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kristi-martin-smith-2653aa3b?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=the-strength-of-the-leadership-team-at-childrens-lighthouse-2727506" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Dr. Kristi Smith</a> is the brain behind the innovative curriculums at Children’s Lighthouse. With over 30 years of experience as an early education administrator, Dr. Kristi is committed to providing schools with creative, proprietary curriculums that set the brand apart from competitors. She holds a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and a Master of Education in Early Education Administration, and she has extensive experience teaching educators worldwide.<h2>A Unified Vision for Success</h2>The leadership team at Children’s Lighthouse is more than just a group of experienced professionals — they are a cohesive unit with a shared vision for the future. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge, a deep commitment to education and a passion for&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-franchisee-ideal-2727080#featured">supporting franchisees</a> in their journey toward success.“We’ve built an incredible team that’s dedicated to helping our franchisees achieve their dreams,” said Brown. “Our leadership team is all about creating a culture where franchisees feel supported and valued. We are a family, and we want our franchisees to feel like they are part of that family.”With such a strong leadership foundation, Children’s Lighthouse is&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/why-now-is-the-perfect-time-to-join-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-2727038#featured">well-positioned for continued growth</a>, offering franchisees the opportunity to build a meaningful business that impacts the lives of children and families across the country.For more information on franchising with Children’s Lighthouse, visit:&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/</a>.About Children’s LighthouseThe Children’s Lighthouse brand was established in Ft. Worth, Texas in 1997. Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools™ promise to create a safe, fun, and happy place that gives children confidence, a sense of comfort today, and a lifelong love of learning, friendship, and community. Its proprietary curriculum helps children of all ages develop healthy brains, bodies and best behaviors.

Children’s Lighthouse: A Leader in Early Childhood Education with a Strong Leadership Team

1851 Franchise

The leadership team at Children's Lighthouse is composed of experienced professionals with a shared vision for the future and a passion for supporting franchisees in their journey toward success.

This brand page has been paid for by CHILDREN'S LIGHTHOUSE. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

The Strength of the Leadership Team at Children's Lighthouse

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Children’s Lighthouse Q1 Momentum: Groundbreakings & Franchisee Conference

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How Families Are Building Brighter Futures Together With Children’s Lighthouse

Children’s Lighthouse Concludes 2025 With Strategic Expansion and a Robust Pipeline for 2026

Why Family-Owned Children’s Lighthouse Gives Franchisees a Long-Term Advantage

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<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> will be in Orlando for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchiseshowinfo.com/orlando-visitor">The National Franchise Show</a> on April 25-26, 2026, where the brand plans to meet with prospective franchisees interested in early education at Booth #319.Held at the Orange County Convention Center, the event is Florida’s largest “Own Your Own Business” showcase, bringing together top franchise brands and aspiring entrepreneurs for two days of in-person networking, education, and discovery.<ul><li>Saturday, April 25: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.</li><li>Sunday, April 26: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.</li></ul>Access a free ticket to the show&nbsp;<a href="https://www.franchiseshowinfo.com/orlando-exhibitor/exhibitor-manual-live">here</a>.With a proven model, a differentiated curriculum, and a clear runway for growth across Florida,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> is using the event to connect with candidates interested in building meaningful, scalable businesses in high-demand markets.<h2>A Proven Brand with Deep Roots in Orlando</h2>With an established foundation, Children's Lighthouse has a clear path forward in the Orlando market.“Children’s Lighthouse has an established presence in the Orlando area with a school in Winter Garden that has been serving families since 2005,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Development. “With more than two decades of operation, the school has built a strong reputation in the community and has been recognized as a top preschool in the market, including being named ‘Best Preschool’ by Orlando City Magazine in 2024.”That long-standing success signals both brand credibility and unmet demand. “The Orlando market is well-positioned to support approximately six to eight Children’s Lighthouse schools over time,” Kelton said. “This reflects the size of the metro area, continued population growth and the availability of high-quality suburban trade areas that align with our model.”<h2>Why Orlando Is a High-Potential Growth Market</h2>With more people moving in, more jobs being created and more young families putting down roots, Orlando stands out as a strong fit for Children’s Lighthouse’s early education model.“Orlando is one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States, driven by strong population growth, job creation and continued migration from across the country and internationally,” Kelton said. “The region benefits from a diverse economy spanning healthcare, technology, tourism, and professional services, creating a large base of dual-income households.”That demographic shift is critical. “These families are seeking high-quality early education and care, making Orlando an ideal fit for the Children’s Lighthouse model,” he said.The brand is specifically targeting high-growth suburban corridors where family density and new housing development are expanding, including:<ul><li>Horizon West/Winter Garden/Windermere</li><li>Lake Nona</li><li>Clermont/Minneola</li><li>Kissimmee/St. Cloud</li><li>Oviedo/Winter Springs/Sanford corridor</li></ul>“In Orlando, we’re prioritizing locations within rapidly expanding suburban corridors and master-planned communities where young families are relocating,” Kelton said. “We focus on high-visibility, accessible sites near residential growth, major commuter routes and community anchors.”<h2>A Measured, Scalable Development Strategy</h2>Rather than over-saturating the Orlando market, Children’s Lighthouse is taking a disciplined, long-term approach to growth.“Children’s Lighthouse anticipates a measured and strategic rollout,” Kelton said.<ul><li>Year 1: 1 new location</li><li>Year 3: 2 to 3 locations</li><li>Year 5: 4 to 5 locations</li><li>Year 10: 6 to 8 locations</li></ul>“This approach ensures that each school is thoughtfully placed and positioned for long-term success,” he said. For franchisees, that translates into protected territories, strong site selection support and the ability to scale over time.<h2>Expanding Beyond Orlando: Tampa Bay and Southwest Florida</h2>Orlando remains a key market for Children’s Lighthouse, but the brand is also looking more broadly at opportunities across Florida.<ul><li>Tampa Bay: projected capacity of 4 to 6 schools</li><li>Southwest Florida (Naples, Fort Myers, Cape Coral): projected capacity of 4 to 6 schools</li></ul>“The brand recently signed a franchise agreement in Naples, further reinforcing its commitment to expanding in Southwest Florida,” Kelton said.Together, these markets represent a significant opportunity for both single-unit and multi-unit operators looking to establish a presence in one of the country’s fastest-growing states.<h2>Meeting Future Owners Face-to-Face</h2>At The National Franchise Show, Children’s Lighthouse will connect directly with prospective franchisees exploring business ownership, many for the first time.The event offers attendees the chance to meet brands face-to-face, explore full- and part-time opportunities, attend educational seminars on franchising, financing, and business ownership, and compare opportunities across industries.“With strong demand, clear market capacity, and a differentiated offering centered on character values and early childhood development, this is a unique moment for franchisees to enter the Children’s Lighthouse system in Florida,” Kelton said.<h2>A Purpose-Driven Opportunity in a High-Demand Industry</h2>Demand for trusted early education remains strong, especially in fast-growing suburban areas, and Children’s Lighthouse is looking to meet that need with a model built around both mission and business performance. For franchisees, that creates an opportunity to build something financially sound while also making a meaningful difference for families in their communities.Prospective owners attending the Orlando show will have the opportunity to meet the team, explore available territories and learn how they can play a role in expanding Children’s Lighthouse across Florida’s most dynamic markets.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

With strong demand for early education and significant whitespace across Florida, Children’s Lighthouse is meeting prospective franchisees at one of the region’s largest business ownership events.

Children’s Lighthouse to Exhibit at The National Franchise Show in Orlando, Showcasing Growth Across Florida

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FORT WORTH, Texas —&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, the nationally recognized early learning school franchise, is building on strong momentum in 2026 following a record-setting 2025.Building on a year that included 15 franchise signings, new market entries, and multiple school openings, the brand has already made meaningful progress toward its 2026 growth goals. Most notably,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> celebrated a groundbreaking for its&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-franchise-expansion-2025-2026-pipeline-2731091">first Tennessee location</a>.“We’ve been really intentional with where we want to expand,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton/">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “What you’re seeing now is the result of that strategy taking hold, entering the right markets with the right partners, and building a foundation for long-term success.”Children’s Lighthouse is growing in a category that continues to see strong demand. Early childhood education remains essential for many families, especially with more than two-thirds of U.S. children under 6 living in households where both parents work.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2024/03/06/2841618/0/en/U-S-Child-Care-Market-Size-to-Surpass-USD-88-22-Billion-by-2033.html">The U.S. childcare market size was valued at $59 billion in 2023 and is expected to surpass around $88 billion by 2033</a>, growing at a CAGR of 4.3% between 2024 and 2033.&nbsp;Children’s Lighthouse serves this demand with its comprehensive&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kNlcmfSRQc">Lighthouse Pathways® approach to learning</a>. This proprietary program focuses on three individualized, research-based, and age-appropriate learning tracks designed to meet each child where they are.&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/bright">Lighthouse BRIGHT®</a> caters to children as young as six weeks old through two years old.&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/cares">Lighthouse CARES®</a> focuses on children from two to five years, while&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/xstream-quest">xSTREAM Quest®</a> caters to school-aged children. In the xSTREAM Quest program, students take part in projects built around science, technology, reading, engineering, art, and math (STREAM). Through classroom instruction and hands-on activities, Children’s Lighthouse helps children build the skills and confidence they need in school and beyond. Maintaining high standards of operational and educational excellence, each Children's Lighthouse school is independently owned and operated and may have its own Cognia™ or other accreditation.“Parents everywhere are looking for high-quality, values-based early education, and Children’s Lighthouse continues to deliver on that promise,” Kelton said. “Our schools are full, our families are happy, and that demand is what fuels responsible growth.”In addition to the Tennessee groundbreaking, Children’s Lighthouse is actively working with franchisees to secure prime real estate and move projects through the development pipeline — a critical focus as competition for sites intensifies nationwide.A major catalyst for the brand’s Q1 momentum was its 2026 Franchise Conference, where franchisees and leadership aligned around a clear theme: Culture and Connection.“This conference was really about alignment,” Kelton said. “As a system, we’ve built strong demand. Now it’s about executing at a high level across every school, every day. Culture and connection are operational drivers. When those two things are strong, performance follows.”As part of its 2026 strategy, Children’s Lighthouse is continuing to invest in systems that support both franchisee performance and brand differentiation. This includes the rollout of AI-powered tools designed to improve responsiveness and lead conversion at the school level, as well as systemwide initiatives like pursuing Cognia accreditation.“We’re entering a phase where consistency across the system is what will separate us in the market,” Kelton said. “The systems are in place. Now it’s about how well we use them.”In addition, the brand is helping franchisees navigate development more strategically through build-to-suit options, SBA financing support and site selection programs, which are all aimed at securing high-quality locations in increasingly competitive markets.As Children’s Lighthouse grows, the brand is concentrating on metro areas where more families are moving in and demand for early education remains strong. Target markets for 2026 include Austin, Indianapolis, Nashville, Orlando, Raleigh, and Charlotte.“We are not trying to grow for the sake of growth,” Kelton said. “We are focused on quality over quantity and making sure we’re entering markets where our model truly resonates with families and franchisees.”With multiple schools in development, new markets opening and a clear strategic roadmap in place, Children’s Lighthouse is entering the remainder of 2026 with confidence. The brand was also recognized on the Entrepreneur Franchise 500 list earlier this year.“We’re laying the groundwork for long-term, sustainable growth,” Kelton said. “This year is about building on the momentum we’ve created and continuing to execute at a high level across the system.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.About Children’s LighthouseThe Children’s Lighthouse brand was established in Fort Worth, Texas in 1997. The Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools® brand promises to create a safe, fun, and happy place that gives children confidence, a sense of comfort today, and a lifelong love of learning, friendship, and community. Children’s Lighthouse focuses on age-appropriate and values-based curriculums that focus on kindergarten readiness and creating lifelong learners. In 2025, Children's Lighthouse was ranked on the Entrepreneur 500 and as a Top Franchise for 2025 by Franchise Business Review. In 2024, Children's Lighthouse was featured on the Franchise Times Top 400.

The early education franchise continues its intentional expansion with new school development and a growing pipeline in high-demand markets.

Children’s Lighthouse Builds Momentum in Q1 2026 With School Groundbreakings and National Franchisee Conference

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<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a> brought franchise owners from across the system together for its 2026 Franchise Conference, centered on a clear theme: Culture and Connection. The event served as both a celebration of the brand’s achievements and a strategic alignment moment heading into a pivotal year.“This conference was really about alignment,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Development. “As a system, we’ve built strong demand. Now it’s about executing at a high level across every school, every day. Culture and connection are operational drivers. When those two things are strong, performance follows. We’re entering a phase where consistency across the system is what will separate us in the market.”<h2>Marketing: Demand Is Strong, but Conversion Is the Opportunity</h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> enters 2026 by building on a strong national marketing campaign that ran from March through July 2025. The result was a 9.5% increase in leads and a 4.5% jump in revenue compared to the previous year. As awareness continues to rise, school-level execution becomes the deciding factor in turning interest into enrollment. Responsiveness, the quality of the tour experience and consistent follow-up will ultimately determine how effectively each location captures demand.Looking ahead, the 2026 brand campaign, launched mid-February and will continue through August, will target parents of children ages 0-8 within a highly focused 2- to 3-mile radius of each school. The campaign will leverage a multi-channel approach across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, display advertising, retargeting and connected TV, ensuring consistent brand visibility throughout the parent decision-making journey.To support franchisees in improving local execution, Children’s Lighthouse is introducing a suite of AI-powered tools launching April 1. These include AI webchat to provide 24/7 responses to parent inquiries, a Genius Search Agent to automate local SEO and Google presence, and a Reputation Agent to monitor and respond to reviews. With 91% of all website chats currently going unanswered, these tools are designed to significantly improve responsiveness, reduce manual workload and ensure that no opportunity is missed.&nbsp;<h2>Operations: Elevating Standards Through System Accreditation</h2>One of the most significant announcements from the conference was the decision to pursue&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cognia.org/accreditation/">Cognia System Accreditation</a>. This accreditation is a third-party seal of approval for quality and operational standards, and also helps the entire system stay current with the changing rules around Universal Pre-K and Education Savings Account funding.On a bigger level, this effort creates a single, consistent set of standards across all locations. That consistency is key, It highlights the brand's solid dedication to being excellent. With more competition and parents expecting more, this accreditation is not just a way to run things, but a strong, unique benefit owners can talk about in their marketing.<h2>Franchise Development: Acting on Expansion Opportunities</h2>The conference also highlighted the rapidly shifting landscape of early education real estate, emphasizing the importance of acting early on expansion. Rising land costs, increased competition for sites and faster decision-making by developers mean that prime locations will soon become more difficult — and more expensive — to secure.Available land is disappearing quickly. Sites that were available a year or 18 months ago are often no longer on the market or now cost significantly more, especially in master-planned communities where parcels are being absorbed fast. As a result, Children's Lighthouse is really encouraging franchisees to evaluate expansion opportunities&nbsp;now, even if development is still further down the road.To support this, the brand is offering one-on-one expansion strategy sessions,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-the-lease-program-lowers-the-cost-of-entry-into-becoming-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchisee-2728540">a build-to-suit lease program</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-to-get-financed-to-open-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-2728462">SBA financing support</a> and a Site First Program designed to help franchisees secure high-quality real estate early in the process. The message is clear: while building may not happen right away, controlling the right site is a critical step in long-term growth.<h2>Celebrating Excellence: 2026 Award Winners</h2>The annual awards ceremony was another major highlight, shining a spotlight on the franchisees and leaders who truly live the brand's core values — integrity, passion, excellence, and community impact.<h3>New School of the Year</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/kyle/about-the-owner">Brad Fink and Connor Matthews — Children’s Lighthouse of Kyle</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/princeton/meet-the-owners">Nadene and Isam Habboush — Children’s Lighthouse of Princeton</a></li></ul><h3>Community Partner Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/lakehouston/about-the-owner">Kelly and John Pritchard — Children’s Lighthouse of Houston (Lake Houston)</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/seabrook">Tonya Porter — Children’s Lighthouse of Seabrook</a></li></ul><h3>Integrity Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/anna">Latha Elen and Elen Singaravelu — Children’s Lighthouse of Anna</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/stoneoak/about-the-owners">Tara and Justin Leggett — Children’s Lighthouse of San Antonio (Stone Oak)</a></li></ul><h3>Passion Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/grandmission/aboutmgt">Amanda and Brian Fisk — Children’s Lighthouse of Richmond (Grand Mission)</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/hooveral/our-owner">Dr. Ira Sullivan — Children’s Lighthouse of Hoover</a></li></ul><h3>Excellence Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/harvestgreen/about-the-owners">Karen and Zeff Walcher — Children’s Lighthouse of Richmond (Harvest Green)</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/kyle/about-the-owner">Brad Fink and Connor Matthews — Children’s Lighthouse of Kyle</a></li></ul><h3>Lighthouse Pride Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/allen/meet-the-owners">Nadene and Isam Habboush — Children’s Lighthouse of Princeton and Allen</a></li><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/latisha-king-27b9a786/">Latisha King — Director of Field Operations, Franchise Support Center</a></li><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennatkari-benavides/">Jennifer Atkari — Franchise Business Coach, Franchise Support Center</a> &nbsp;</li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/newbraunfels/meet-the-owners">Ashley and Ryan Hempton — Children’s Lighthouse of New Braunfels</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-sherman-68480677/">Anna Sherman — Director of Franchise Development, Franchise Support Center</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-lance-211a7a346/">Kelsey Lance — Brand Marketing Coach, Franchise Support Center</a></li></ul><h3>Founders Award</h3><ul><li>2024:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/leesville/about-the-owners">Sheetal and Vishal Thomas — Children’s Lighthouse of Raleigh</a></li><li>2025:&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthouse.com/oakforest/meet-the-owners">Alexis and John Legg — Children’s Lighthouse of Houston (Oak Forest)</a></li></ul><h2>Looking Ahead to the Future</h2>Children’s Lighthouse has seen strong momentum so far this year, a growing footprint and a clear strategic roadmap. Following a year that included 15 franchise signings, multiple new openings and expansion into new states, the brand is positioned for continued, intentional growth.“2026 is going to reward operators who execute consistently,” Kelton said. “The systems are in place. Now it’s about how well we use them.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

The 2026 Children's Lighthouse Conference hammered home that the best way to turn high demand into real, long-term growth is through consistent execution at the local level. 

An Inside Look at Children’s Lighthouse Franchise Conference Recap and Award Winners

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Filling a school is one of the most critical, and often most challenging, parts of operating an early education center. At&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, it’s also one of the most strategically supported.Rather than relying on fragmented marketing efforts or passive enrollment tactics, the brand has developed a comprehensive, data-driven approach to help franchisees consistently attract, engage, and convert families. The result is a system that not only drives leads but turns them into long-term enrollments.<h2>A Focus on High-Intent Lead Generation</h2>At the top of the funnel,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> prioritizes quality over quantity.&nbsp;“We are really focused on high-intent lead generation, not just volume,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/berrycolin/">Colin Berry</a>, Vice President of Brand Development. “Our messaging is really what sets us apart. Our marketing is focused on our proprietary curriculum and our character values. We also have extended hours, great locations and convenience — those tend to be the parents’ main focus. We aren’t just chasing clicks, we are attracting families looking for a better option.”For franchisees, that means fewer wasted leads and more meaningful conversations with families who are already aligned with the brand’s value proposition. In addition to national brand strategies, Children’s Lighthouse empowers franchisees with targeted local marketing tools.“The marketing team is very surgical in the process and has helped us with geo-fencing,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-travis-97b81221/">Randy Travis</a>, a franchisee in Cypress, Texas. “For example, if we have spaces in the toddler range to fill, they are able to focus very specifically on that segment of parents for us.”At the same time, the brand recognizes that digital strategies must be complemented by real-world presence.“Franchisees are also encouraged to do local, grassroots marketing,” Berry said. “In childcare, word of mouth is still a big part of marketing. We make sure we are at every event we can be at — sponsoring local teams, part of PTA organizations — we want to be where parents are.”<h2>Speed-to-Lead: Winning the First Interaction</h2>Once a parent expresses interest, speed becomes the focus.&nbsp;“The most important thing for us is speed-to-lead and having the structure to follow up,” Berry said. “As soon as someone calls the school or fills out an enrollment form, they are getting an immediate response.”Through CRM-driven automation, parents receive texts, emails, and follow-ups within seconds. “There is a multi-touch cadence,” Berry said. “The first schools to respond usually win, so we make sure we are that school.”This system removes friction from the process and ensures no opportunity slips through the cracks.<h2>Turning Tours Into Conversions</h2>While digital marketing drives awareness, Children’s Lighthouse knows that enrollment decisions are often made in person. That’s why the brand places significant emphasis on creating highly personalized tour experiences.“Tours aren’t just walkthroughs; they are a tailored experience for each parent,” Berry said. “We have a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/values-based-curriculum-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-competitive-edge-2731093">differentiated curriculum through our Lighthouse Pathways</a>, and we bring that to life during the tour.”Franchisees are trained to understand what matters most to each family and adjust their approach accordingly, from safety concerns to classroom structure to developmental outcomes.“Our tours are very focused and family-centric,” Travis said. “Our goal is to determine what is most important to the specific parent. We always let them know that we will discuss everything and anything, but we want to focus on what matters most to them individually.”That personalization creates a stronger emotional connection and, ultimately, higher conversion rates.<h2>Data-Driven Follow-Up That Closes the Loop</h2>The experience doesn’t end when the tour does. Children’s Lighthouse leverages technology to keep families engaged throughout the decision-making process. Systems like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.intellikidsystems.com/">IntelliKid</a> track each family's progress on the journey and automate personalized follow-up communication.“We can utilize that software to send out specific reminders and messages from that stage in the process,” Travis said. “We also like to follow up in person — we’ll have somebody contact a family within 24 hours and check back in.”Berry notes that this level of personalization extends into post-tour communication. “They get personalized messages by email and text after the tour,” he said. “What was the family really interested in? Whatever that focus is, they are going to start getting messages based on that experience.”<h2>A Proven Three-Step System for Enrollment Growth</h2>For Travis, success ultimately comes down to a simple but powerful framework: “We’ve realized there are really three legs to this stool at the end of the day,” he said. “You need to be found first through an internet search. Second, you need to get the parents in for an actual tour. Third, we want to generate such a great experience that they are comfortable telling family and friends about their experience.”That system —&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/the-top-5-reasons-to-buy-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-in-2024-2726323">backed by corporate support, technology, and training</a> — has delivered real results.“We’ve had a great spring and have added 45 to 50 students since mid-December,” Travis said. “We’ve done an excellent job of getting people to the door.”At its core, Children’s Lighthouse’s enrollment strategy is about attracting the right families and delivering an experience that aligns with the brand’s mission. From high-intent lead generation and lightning-fast follow-up to personalized tours and community engagement, the brand has created a repeatable system that franchisees can rely on.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

From high-intent digital strategies to personalized tours and community-driven marketing, the brand has built a system designed to convert interest into enrollment.

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For decades, entering the early learning franchise space has required significant upfront capital. At&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children’s Lighthouse</a>, that narrative is changing.By offering flexible development models, smart financing partnerships, and creative ways to own a franchise, the brand is actively making it easier to join while still keeping its high-quality, real estate-backed model. The payoff? More ambitious people can get into a high-demand, stable business without being weighed down by all the costs of traditional development.<h2>Rethinking the Traditional Investment Model</h2>Historically, building a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children’s Lighthouse</a> school meant purchasing land and constructing a ground-up facility, which is an investment that can range from&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/franchise-deep-dive-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2726111">$6 million to $7 million</a>.While this traditional model still offers significant long-term upside through real estate ownership, Children’s Lighthouse recognizes that not every entrepreneur wants — or needs — to start there. That’s why the brand has expanded its approach to include more flexible, capital-efficient entry points.One of the most impactful innovations is the build-to-suit model, which dramatically reduces the initial cash required to open a location.“The build-to-suit is when an investment group buys the building, the franchisee pays for the fixtures and startup capital, and that can bring it to a much lower cash injection,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton/">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development.Essentially, this setup takes the stress of buying land and building off the franchisee's plate, placing that responsibility with a third-party investment group. This frees the franchisee to concentrate on getting kids enrolled and growing the business. It also makes it easier for entrepreneurs — especially those with great hands-on experience but maybe not a huge pile of cash up front — to get started.Similar to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-the-lease-program-lowers-the-cost-of-entry-into-becoming-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchisee-2728540">the brand’s Lease Program</a>, this approach opens the door for multi-unit ownership by freeing up capital that would otherwise be tied up in real estate.<h2>Financing That Works for Franchisees</h2>Beyond development flexibility, Children’s Lighthouse has built a&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-to-get-financed-to-open-a-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-2728462">robust ecosystem of financing support</a> designed to guide franchisees through every stage of the process.“We have a whole list of preferred SBA vendors who can get franchisees up to 90% funding,” Kelton said. “You can also use a ROBS account. We also have a lot of partnerships. Private equity loves this model, for example. When franchisees sign on with the brand, we explain all the funding options and what that looks like.”By connecting franchisees with experienced lenders and funding partners, the brand helps simplify what can otherwise be a complex and intimidating process. Whether through SBA-backed loans, retirement account rollovers (ROBS), or investor partnerships, franchisees have multiple pathways to secure the capital they need.This hands-on approach ensures that prospective owners aren’t navigating financing alone — a key differentiator in a capital-intensive industry like childcare.<h2>Lower Costs, Greater Scalability</h2>Lowering the initial investment also unlocks faster growth potential. With traditional ground-up development, a franchisee’s capital is often concentrated in a single location. But with build-to-suit or lease-based models, that same capital can be deployed across multiple schools.“With a traditional investment, if you have millions to spend, you’re often opening one school,” Kelton said. “With our alternative models, you can scale much faster.”This ability to grow more efficiently is particularly appealing to multi-unit operators and investors looking to build a portfolio of locations within a high-demand category.Importantly, while Children’s Lighthouse is lowering the barrier to entry,&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/how-childrens-lighthouses-exceptional-curriculum-helps-the-brand-stand-out-as-a-childcare-franchise-2727632">it is not lowering its standards</a>.Each location remains a purpose-built, approximately 10,000-square-foot early education school designed to serve families in high-growth communities. The brand continues to prioritize premium real estate, high-quality construction and a strong curriculum.At the same time, these new ownership pathways allow a broader range of entrepreneurs to participate in that model. And the timing for these innovations couldn’t be better. Demand for high-quality childcare continues to outpace supply across the country, driven by dual-income households, return-to-office trends and limited availability of premium providers.By making ownership more accessible, Children’s Lighthouse is not only helping franchisees succeed — it’s also accelerating its ability to meet this growing demand in communities nationwide.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

Through financing partnerships and build-to-suit options, Children’s Lighthouse is lowering startup costs and making premium early childhood education franchise ownership more accessible.

How Children’s Lighthouse Helps Franchisees Access Smart Funding and Build-to-Suit Opportunities

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When looking for investments in 2026, you need a franchise that lasts. This is especially true given today's uncertain economy. That means reliable demand, simple operations, and real long-term growth. Few sectors fit this profile better than early childhood education. Within that field,&nbsp;<a href="https://childrenslighthousefranchise.com/">Children's Lighthouse</a> is fast becoming the top choice for smart investors.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/info">Children's Lighthouse</a> has been operating for nearly 30 years and utilizes a proprietary, research-backed curriculum. Its business model is strong, supported by healthy cash flow and commercial real estate assets. As the company enters 2026, it brings significant momentum and a clear path for continued growth, while also welcoming an increasing number of qualified franchisees. This opportunity successfully combines purpose and performance. Both are critically important right now.<h2>Demand That Doesn’t Flinch, Even in Uncertain Times</h2>Childcare and early education continue to rank among the most recession-resistant sectors in franchising, and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-climbs-the-franchise-times-top-400-list-once-again-2730465">Children’s Lighthouse is benefiting directly from that reality</a>. Across the country, dual-income households are the norm, birth rates in key suburban growth markets remain strong, and parents are increasingly selective about where they entrust their children’s early development.“First, it’s a business that has incredible demand — the number of parents that have a need for our services is at a record level,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-kelton">Matt Kelton</a>, Vice President of Franchise Development. “We have waitlists all over the country. We’ve also never had an SBA failure in our system, which is unheard of in franchising.”<h2>A Proprietary Curriculum That Drives Retention and Reputation</h2>Children's Lighthouse aims to be an early learning institution, not a daycare. That distinction resonates with parents. It also gives franchisees meaningful staying power.“There just aren’t many concepts out there with a proprietary curriculum designed to grow with the child,” Kelton said. “That’s a big reason our families stay with us long-term.”<a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/values-based-curriculum-childrens-lighthouse-franchise-competitive-edge-2731093">The Lighthouse Pathways® curriculum</a> is proprietary, research-driven, and designed to grow with the child. From Lighthouse BRIGHT® for infants and toddlers to Lighthouse Cares® for preschoolers and xSTREAM Quest® for school-age children, the programs span infancy through age 12 — creating long-term enrollment, family loyalty, and strong word-of-mouth.<h2>Built-In Real Estate Value That Investors Understand</h2>Children’s Lighthouse also offers something increasingly rare in franchising: an attractive real estate play. Each school is typically a 10,000-square-foot facility situated on nearly two acres in a high-visibility community location — this allows franchisees to build equity alongside their business.“In 15 years, you can potentially sell it for a significant multiple of what you paid for it,” Kelton said. “It’s really an intriguing model. Banks like it. Private equity loves it. And you’re still offering a critical service to your community.”<h2>Momentum Heading Into 2026</h2><a href="https://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse/childrens-lighthouse-franchise-expansion-2025-2026-pipeline-2731091#featured">Children’s Lighthouse closed 2025 with 15 franchise signings, five locations under new ownership, and three new schools opened</a>, while also entering Indiana and Missouri for the first time.&nbsp;“Our schools continue to grow as well as we continue to manage massive demand for childcare,” Kelton said. “Parents everywhere are looking for high-quality, values-based early education, and Children’s Lighthouse continues to deliver on that promise.”The brand is slated to open its first Tennessee location in 2026 and expects eight new school openings throughout the year.“We are not trying to sell just to sell,” Kelton said. “We are focused more on quality over quantity. We want to find the right partners who are the right fit all the way around. At the end of the day, our schools are full and our families are happy. That’s the best validation there is. When you invest in Children’s Lighthouse, you’re investing in an opportunity that is both financially sound and personally rewarding.”To learn more about franchising with Children’s Lighthouse, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse">1851franchise.com/childrens-lighthouse</a>.

From its proprietary curriculum to resilient business fundamentals, here’s why entrepreneurs are prioritizing Children’s Lighthouse in their 2026 franchise search.

The Strength of the Leadership Team at Children's Lighthouse

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